Looking for the perfect family-friendly adventure in Virginia Beach? Look no further! Owl Creek Landing and the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center are two neighboring attractions that combine outdoor fun with aquatic exploration. Just south of Virginia Beach’s vibrant downtown, these destinations offer a full day of excitement, discovery and accessibility for all.
These two Virginia Beach attractions are conveniently located near each other and just south of Virginia Beach’s downtown area. Owl Creek Landing is right behind The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium and the Virginia Aquarium’s South Building. Just west of Owl Creek, you get to the attraction via a short stroll on an accessible walking bridge. Then, to get to the Virginia Aquarium’s South Building, pop out onto the Owls Creek Saltmarsh Preserve Nature Trail, which is a ⅓-mile walk with outlook posts with views of the protected salt marsh.
Owl Creek Landing: Where Adventure Takes Flight
Get ready to elevate your family outing—literally. Owl Creek Landing is Virginia Beach’s newest destination, designed to inspire wonder and exploration for visitors of every age and ability. Nestled in 38 acres of lush forest, this one-of-a-kind attraction features the only walkable lookout tower in the U.S., the nation’s longest stainless-steel slide, a sky-high treehouse village and more!
At the heart of Owl Creek Landing is the Nautilus Lookout Tower—a 65-foot-tall spiral structure that welcomes everyone, including strollers and wheelchairs, to walk to the top via a gentle, winding ramp. And for those craving a thrill? Take the ride of your life down the sleek, spiral slide that coils through the tower’s core.
Just a short stroll from the tower along the Treetop Trail Canopy Walk, you’ll reach the Children’s Treehouse Village—a cluster of four whimsically themed treehouses, all perched 30 to 40 feet above the forest floor. It’s a forest playground unlike any other, where imaginations (and little feet) can run wild. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? A mile-long network of accessible walking trails snakes around the tower and through the forest so everyone can join in on the fun.
Dive Into Discovery at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center brims with sea life, from sleek sharks and sea turtles to playful otters and mesmerizing moon jellies! Take a self-guided tour through the North Building, featuring larger species from local and global marine life. Then, head over to the newly renovated South Building to partake in immersive experiences with interactive exhibits for all to enjoy, a touch pool to feel moon jellies, kids play areas and an interactive water quality lab.
The Aquarium also offers many special events, such as “Behind the Scenes” with various specials like sharks or sea turtles, Toddler Tuesdays and dolphin-watching boat tours! Reservations are recommended and are required for some events, so check out the website to learn more.
Accessible Adventures for Everyone
Owl Creek Landing and the Aquarium are designed with accessibility in mind, so bring the strollers and wheelchairs! These two attractions have a mix of indoor and outdoor options and are nestled in the forest, providing a variety of terrains and temperatures. Additionally, both sites are self-guided (minus some of the special events at the Aquarium), so there’s no need to rush—take your time and adjust your day as needed.
At Owl Creek Landing, the steel Nautilus Lookout Tower ascends at a low grade. Even the Treetop Trail Canopy Walk is partially accessible, despite it being 30-40 feet above ground. The surrounding ground-level walking paths are also accessible and provide a scenic option. Everyone can join in on the fun!
Plan Your Visit
Create your own adventure when visiting these two attractions! On warmer days, start your day exploring Owl Creek Landing, and then stroll over to the air-conditioned Aquarium in the afternoon. Or visit the sea creatures in the afternoon and then take in the wonder of a softly lit forest at nighttime. The best part? Everything is within walking distance via accessible trails, so no driving is required between stops. So many options!
Map
Owl Creek Landing is located at 801 General Booth Boulevard in Virginia Beach near the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium.
The Aquarium’s South Building is located at 801 General Booth Boulevard.
Parking
Parking is available in three locations:
- At Owl Creek Landing next to the Virginia Aquarium’s South Building (801 General Booth Boulevard, Virginia Beach).
- In the overflow lot behind it across Ocean Breeze Parkway.
- Find additional parking at the Aquarium’s North Building (717 General Booth Boulevard, Virginia Beach) or East Lot across the street.
A ¾-mile, paved trail connects Owl Creek Landing visitors to the Aquarium’s North Building or East Lot. Parking is free from November 1 – March 31 or a nominal $5 per vehicle between April 1 and October 31.
Hours of Operation and Ticket Information
Plan ahead so you can maximize your time at both facilities.
- Owl Creek Landing and its amenities are open from 10 am to 10 pm daily starting in May 2025.
- Ticket pricing varies by age, with annual tickets and combo passes available.
- View the Aquarium’s website for information on hours and tickets.
Grab a Bite
Stay fueled with tasty coffee drinks, snacks and beverages from on-site food carts at Owl Creek Landing or pack your own food and non-alcoholic drinks. The Aquarium offers casual dining options.
Get a Group Together
Owl Creek Landing accepts bookings for groups of 10 or more. To schedule your group, please call us at 475-988-0988 or email us at groups@owlcreeklanding.com.
Bonus Experience: The Adventure Park
Looking to add even more excitement? Combine The Adventure Park with the Aquarium! The Adventure Park, located right next to Owl Creek Landing and part of the Aquarium, is full of treetop activities, including ziplining, aerial obstacle courses, climbing and ropes courses—all in the forest! You’ll find the best ropes course climbs and tree-to-tree ziplining adventures in the area. Book a combo ticket and experience both parks for less! Learn more about The Adventure Park on our blog and website.
Learn More and Book Your Trip
Owl Creek Landing and the Aquarium are two attractions that make for a perfect day at Virginia Beach! Climb, walk and slide through Owl Creek Landing and view and interact with a variety of marine life at the famous aquarium—all in one day!
Ready to climb and explore? Visit the Owl Creek Landing and Aquarium websites to plan your trip and get tickets. Whether you’re planning ahead or looking for a spontaneous afternoon out, Owl Creek Landing and the Virginia Aquarium promise a day to remember.
